Tag Archive for stress Christmas

Christmas time is a time when it seems there’s never enough time for “You.” You find time to wrap everyone’s gifts, clean up the mess you made, head back to the store for more bows, pick up a couple more gifts for nephews, and make it home in time to put dinner in the oven. As fun as the Christmas season is, it also seems to be a time when stress levels are at a code Red! Here are a few ideas on how to get a little “You” time during Christmas.

Plan Your Day and Schedule in a Break

We know this sounds difficult but it’s very important. You schedule everything except time for yourself. No one will remember a sloppy wrapped gift or a little late dinner, but they will remember your inevitable blow up if the stress gets to you. Take time for yourself even if it’s just 15 minutes.

Delegate Responsibilities to Your Children

Kids as young as 4 or 5 can help clean up or do laundry. Don’t be afraid to ask them to clean up after you. Tell them Santa is watching. That always seems to work during this time. Ask them to help wrap gifts and put their dishes away. Learning how to delegate can save you time and anxiety.

Visit a Store and Pick Something Out For Yourself

We know it sound selfish but it’s the season of giving and sometimes that means giving “You” a reward for being so awesome. You’ve been everyone’s “go to” person and sometimes you aren’t acknowledged for all you do. Acknowledge yourself by spending a little less on them in order to spend a little bit on you.

Sit at the Mall and People Watch

This is something I love to do. Grab a drink and a bag of popcorn and watch the best reality show ever. You’ll see grandmas racing around like teenagers trying to find the perfect gift. Watch as mall security fight through the crowd to keep order at the arcade. Count how many people walk by texting, facebooking, and tweeting while almost walking into walls and Christmas decorations.

Slow Down and Enjoy the Season

Most importantly you need to slow down and realize, It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. It is not supposed to be a stressful time, rather a time to enjoy your family and friends. Don’t forget that. Enjoy the season.